In conclusion......

[Discuss the group conclusion based and EBP guidelines and current research]
By Kenny Starling

After looking into current research and evidence based practice guidelines regarding infant immunization, we feel confident in recommending the practice of infant immunization. Although there are some slight risks that might arise with vaccinations, they occur with a very small percentage of the population. You are more likely to develop a serious medical condition from lack of vaccinations than from the vaccinations themselves; therefore the benefits outweigh the risks. Vaccinations have come a long way since their inception, and what was once considered somewhat risky is now considered very safe. If an infant has an underlying condition that is already putting stress on their immune system, they should consult a physician to determine if a vaccination is safe at that time. For a healthy child however, the stress of a vaccination on the immune system is minimal, and is generally not a concern. Current research from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that following a regular immunization schedule is best practice, and ultimately maintains the health of the infant. A great example to demonstrate the benefits of vaccinations would be to look at smallpox. Smallpox was once considered a serious ailment, but due to vaccination efforts, smallpox has essentially been eradicated worldwide. Respectively speaking, America’s potential for an outbreak of vaccination preventable diseases is slim to none due to our prevention preparation. For instance, the flu pandemic of 1918, which is most notably known for annihilating 50-100 million individuals, is today, non-existent thanks to developed research in constructing vaccinations. However, diseases such as malaria, mumps, rubella, varicella, etc… still exist in countries that are underdeveloped. In essence, we are only as safe as we make ourselves be. Surely, if we disregarded vaccinations due to their rumored side effects, we’d be giving debilitating diseases a second opportunity of finding a way to destroy our immune systems.

Sources:

National Guideline Clearinghouse. (2010, April 19). Routine preventative services for infants and children (birth - 24 months). Retrieved from www.guideline.gov: http://www.guideline.gov/summary/summary.aspx?doc_id=15116&nbr=007411&string=infant+AND+immunizations

Park, A. (2008, May 21). How Safe Are Vaccines? TIME Magazine.